Sheep are wonderfully forgiving subjects for origami, because "fluffy" is really just a matter of folding edges in and then folding them back out again. This little model captures that soft, round silhouette in only ten steps, and the face comes together with a single reverse fold that is easier than it sounds.

It pairs beautifully with the origami hen and rooster if you are building a farmyard, and it is simple enough to fold a whole flock in one sitting. White or cream paper is the obvious choice, though a pale grey sheet gives a rather distinguished ram.

How to Fold

Step 1. Fold the paper in half and then unfold it.

Step 2. Fold the top and bottom edges in to the centre along the dotted lines.

Step 3. Fold the top layers of paper back out along the dotted lines.

Step 4. Fold the model in half, bringing the top half down and behind.

Step 5. Fold the paper along the dotted line, then unfold it.

Step 6. Make an inside reverse fold along the dotted line to shape the head.

Step 7. Fold the paper over to the left along the dotted line.

Step 8. Fold the paper down and behind along the dotted line.

Step 9. Fold the paper again along the dotted line.

Step 10. Fold the top of the paper down and behind along the dotted line.

After Folding

Your origami sheep is complete. If you would like a slightly fuller fleece, fold the body layers out a little further at step 3 before continuing.

Draw on a small eye, or leave the face plain for a softer look. A whole flock of these looks lovely lined up on a shelf, and they make sweet additions to a handmade card.